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Cubs game today news delivered a major boost for Chicago, as Alex Bregman will not be placed on the injured list after suffering multiple facial fractures in a frightening on-deck accident Sunday. The veteran third baseman could even return before the end of the regular season if his recovery continues without complications.
Bregman was struck in the face by a foul ball during the Cubs’ 9-1 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Sunday. The baseball came off the bat of Michael Busch after Busch checked his swing in the fourth inning. Bregman was preparing to hit when the ball bounced and hit him in the face.
The incident immediately raised serious concerns throughout the Chicago clubhouse. Bregman dropped his bat, grabbed his face and quickly left the field with members of the Cubs’ medical staff. He was later evaluated at a local hospital and was cleared of concussion symptoms.
Major Cubs Game Today Update on Alex Bregman
According to Cubs manager Craig Counsell, Bregman has received encouraging news from several medical specialists. Tests showed multiple fractures in the cheek area, but doctors determined that surgery is not required. His vision also remains unaffected.
“He’s completely himself,” Counsell said before Tuesday’s matchup with the Miami Marlins. “He can’t sit still. He’s all over the room. Those are really good signs.”
The Cubs will continue to monitor Bregman closely as he gradually increases his activity. The key concern will be whether he experiences new or worsening symptoms while working out, tracking pitches or taking part in baseball activities.
Could Bregman Return Before the Playoffs?
Bregman has made it clear that he wants to return as soon as possible. He posted after Sunday’s injury that he would be back, and his actions Tuesday backed up that confidence. The 32-year-old completed a workout and entered the batting cage wearing a helmet to track high-velocity pitches on the Trajekt machine.
“I think Alex is going to be fine, I really do,” Counsell said. “He’s planning on playing. He knew he had to get some good news from the doctors. He got that good news. So he’s going to do everything in his power.”
The Cubs are scheduled to face the Boston Red Sox in a three-game series after completing their set against the Marlins. That matchup would bring Bregman back to Boston, where he played last season, although the club will not rush his recovery.
Chicago entered Tuesday atop the National League Wild Card standings, making Bregman’s status especially important during the final stretch of the regular season. The Cubs are pushing for October baseball, and a healthy Bregman could provide a significant lift in the lineup and at third base.
Why Bregman’s Bat Is Crucial for Chicago
Bregman has been one of the Cubs’ most productive players in the second half. Through 153 games, he was batting .262 with 26 home runs, 32 doubles, 89 RBIs and an .804 OPS.
His second-half production has been even more impressive. In 59 games since the All-Star break, Bregman has hit .296 with 17 homers, 17 doubles, 48 RBIs and a .978 OPS. Only teammate Pete Crow-Armstrong has produced more FanGraphs wins above replacement for Chicago during that span.
That recent surge has made Bregman a central figure in the Cubs’ postseason push. His combination of power, plate discipline and experience gives Chicago another dangerous middle-of-the-order option as the Wild Card race reaches its decisive stage.
Chicago Has Temporary Third-Base Options
While Bregman works toward a return, the Cubs have internal options available at third base. Pedro Ramírez and Matt Shaw are both capable of handling the position.
Ramírez had recently become the primary second baseman while Nico Hoerner covered shortstop during Dansby Swanson’s absence. Shaw, meanwhile, served as Chicago’s main third baseman last season before Bregman joined the club on a five-year, $175 million contract.
“No one’s asking anyone to replace Breggy and what he’s done this year,” Hoerner said. “But in the meantime, we’re very well-equipped to handle it.”
The latest Cubs game today developments suggest the team avoided the worst possible outcome. Bregman still faces a careful recovery process, but the absence of surgery, the clean vision test and his ability to work out have created genuine optimism in Chicago.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Alex Bregman go on the injured list?
No. Craig Counsell said Bregman will not be placed on the injured list after doctors determined that his facial fractures do not require surgery.
What happened to Bregman during the Cubs game?
A foul ball struck Bregman in the face while he was in the on-deck circle during Chicago’s game against Cincinnati on Sunday.
Could Alex Bregman play again this week?
A return this weekend has not been ruled out, but the Cubs will monitor his symptoms as he increases his baseball activity.
Who can replace Bregman at third base?
Pedro Ramírez and Matt Shaw are the primary in-house options available to the Cubs while Bregman recovers.
